Are Digital Locks Killing Mechanical Hardware?

In an ever-evolving world that is primarily technology-driven, is it any surprise that the security industry is being given a makeover? The question is what shape will this transformation take and what will happen to those traditional locks that many of us are hesitant to trade in for the digital versions? Read on to see what the future holds for locking mechanisms as we know them.

Up With Digital, Down With Mechanical?

Relax, video didn’t really kill the radio star, and digital isn’t going to do away with mechanical hardware either. In fact, there is a happy medium being struck as we speak, and it’s one that is going to make most people feel more comfortable about the safety of their access points than ever before.

What’s the Problem Anyway?

Electronic locks combine the access pad, electric-powered lock, and credential reader into one easy to use device and location. And since most of these are battery-powered, you don’t even have the headache of complex wiring and installation. Electronic locks reduce overall costs, provide more convenience, and generally make everyone’s lives better.

Most people feel like digital cards and PIN codes are more secure than the traditional lock and key option. Simply put, locks are easy to pick and keys are even easier to lose, while digital locks provide an added level of security. So what’s the problem?

Technology is not without flaws. PIN codes can be given out without your permission (an angry girlfriend, a nosy neighbor, or an innocent child). You can also lose digital cards or fobs as easily as you would a traditional key (though most smart devices have built-in security measures to alleviate the problems of theft or lost cards being used).

Get Off The Phone!

Mobile apps that control access are even more precarious to the public. Devices are hackable (but if you’re like most people, you don’t let your phone out of your hand for a minute so smartphones are generally safer than the average key). There is something extremely disconcerting about having no signs left of a forced entry though.

So not everyone is ready to trade in their durable locks for a flimsy key card or app.

What’s the Solution?

Basically, people don’t want to give up on mechanical locks entirely but like the idea of a more convenient and streamlined solution. So what’s the answer? The geniuses of the industry have introduced a synthesized option where mechanical and electronic locks combine forces for the optimal locking mechanism. After all, aren’t two heads better than one? Electronic locks that utilize mechanical components as backup measures give users the best of both worlds.

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